Our Program
Imagination Library of Wichita County
History
In response to growing awareness that early reading is critical in preparing children for school readiness, the Dolly Parton Imagination Library was developed to address the low literacy rates in Tennessee. The program, begun in 1996, provides one book each month mailed to the home at no cost to the family, and has been so successful that the state of Tennessee now funds 50% of the cost of Imagination Library so that all children in Tennessee have access to the program. The program has been replicated in over 45 states, Canada and the United Kingdom.
After months of research locally, the North Texas Area United Way and its Early Childhood Coalition agreed that all young children in our community should have the opportunity for access to quality reading material and meaningful early literacy experiences. The key is to start at birth. However, to read to a child, books must be in the home. Through the hard work of a committed group of volunteers, funds were raised so that Wichita County could become the first county in Texas to replicate this program. In March of 2007, Imagination Library of Wichita County was launched, to the excitement of many parents and young children! Since that time, over 3,000 young children in Wichita County have received books monthly, at no cost to their families.
Evaluation
The North Texas Area United Way recently conducted an online survey of over 150 parents whose child(ren) had been enrolled in Imagination Library of Wichita County for at least 4 months. This survey revealed:
· Over 89% strongly agree or agree that their child looks forward to receiving the IL book each month.
· Over 85% strongly agree or agree that their child’s enthusiasm in books has increased.
· Over 80% strongly agree or agree that they read more often to their child as a result of participation in Imagination Library.
Funding
The North Texas Area United Way is responsible for outreach and enrollment for this program in addition to funding the cost of the books. The approximate cost of books and mailing per enrolled child is $30 per year. Funding for Imagination Library has come from foundations, businesses, civic organizations, individuals and others. The North Texas Area United Way is constantly searching for new sources of funding to ensure the continuation of the program. If you are interested in sponsoring a child, make a donation and help a child increase their vocabulary through reading their Imagination Library books.
Our Partners
The Priddy Foundation
The Donnell Foundation
Women’s Leadership Council of United Way
Women, Infants & Children of Wichita County
Workforce Solutions Child Care
Target